The Dierberg family began cultivating Drum Canyon Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation of Santa Barbara in 2008. Siblings Ellen Dierberg Milne and Michael Dierberg, now second-generation growers, have embraced a sustainable approach to producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This commitment has established Dierberg as one of the select few California Certified Sustainable vineyards.

Winemaker Tyler Thomas, who apprenticed with the renowned Aubert de Villaine of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, employs a minimalist approach in crafting exceptional wines. His focus is on allowing the unique character of the vineyard site to shine through in every bottle of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

For wine lovers exploring California’s wineries, Dierberg offers not only outstanding wines but also a genuine connection to sustainable viticulture and a commitment to quality that truly reflects the beauty of the Sta. Rita Hills.

Frostwatch is located in the recently established Bennett Valley appellation, located just south and to the East of the city of Santa Rosa in Sonoma County. Roughly defined by the Matanzas Creek watershed, it has been estimated that Bennett Valley had some 2,000 acres planted to wine grapes in the mid-1800s. Largely due to the efforts of these individuals, the wine cognoscenti recognized Bennett Valley as an area that was synonymous with fine Merlot and Chardonnay. More recently, Bennett Valley Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot and Syrah have been recognized for their exceptional quality.

At Tudor Wines the select fruit from their family-owned vineyards and transform it into wine using traditional techniques. These include small fermentations mixed by hand and aging in French barrels. The resulting wine has a purity of expression that cannot be duplicated on a larger scale.

Owner-Operator: Ed Muns, a former technology manager in Silicon Valley, acquired his viticulture knowledge from Northern California wine-growers and extension courses at the UC Davis Department of Viticulture and Enology while establishing his own vineyard. Ed is hands-on in the vineyard, overseeing the crew and handling all the tractor work. Outside the vineyard, Ed is an avid Ham radio contester (W0YK) and holds world records in the field. Both Ed and Mary have enjoyed sailing and racing Hobie Cats and monohulls, though the demands of the vineyard and winery have recently limited their time on the water.

Partner: Mary Lindsay manages marketing and sales for Muns Vineyard wines, marking her second career. Formerly, she was President of Lindsay Public Relations, where she shaped the image and messaging for young high-tech companies in Silicon Valley. Mary also handles marketing for Silver Mountain Vineyards and previously managed their tasting room on Cannery Row in Monterey. She is President of the Viticulture Association of the Santa Cruz Mountains (VASCM), supports various winery groups, and assists in the vineyard, particularly during harvest. Her additional interests include foraging for wild mushrooms, collecting rocks, and knitting.

We hold tours of the vineyard on specific scheduled dates (please see our Events page), and will provide address and directions with your reservation. We participate in Passport Day at Vino Locale, 431 Kipling St., Palo Alto  650-328-0340 .